Activity

Build a nestbox

You can give birds a safe place to rest and raise a family by building them a cosy nestbox.

A wooden nestbox painted the same dark green as the fence panel it's mounted to and surrounded by leafy foliage.

This Helping Nature activity can be completed as part of Schools or Families Wild Challenge (it counts as Homes for birds for Schools). You can put up any nestbox for this challenge, but the instructions included below are for a House Sparrow box. 

Season: Autumn, Winter, Spring

Instructions

Are you a teacher?

This activity is about building a home for birds and giving them a place to stay in your school grounds.  

Here are some prompts to help with learning: 

  • What do you need to consider about the materials you use? 
  • Where do you think is the best place to put the nestbox? 
  • How can you try to ensure the birds will thrive in their new home? 

Take a look at the ‘What’ll you’ll need’ tab for full instructions and details of the equipment you’ll need to make the nestbox. 

Use the right materials

Before you get started, make sure you have the right type of wood. You’ll need wood that is 15–18mm thick, to insulate the box from cold and heat, and to stop it from warping. You can use exterior-quality plywood for a lightweight box or, for something more sturdy, use hardwood oak and beech or softwood (pine works, but will deteriorate more quickly). Avoid using pressure-treated timber. 

Look for the FSC logo to make sure you’re buying timber approved by the Forest Stewardship Council. 

Partnering with

The RSPB is a member of BirdLife International.More